We tested the Trek, specialized ariel and specialized vita today. She ruled out the trek bikes rather quickly and seemed to like the ariel better than the vita. she claims to like the ariel over the giant roam (very very similiar bikes).

It looks like we are down to two bikes. Specialized Ariel vs. Cannondale quick 5.

Cannondale now offers a CX quick in womens that is very similiar to design to the ariel. MIGHT let her try that one even though its a couple hundred more but leaning against it.

Surprised the final two are down to a street oriented bike vs. a more hybrid bike. instead of a showdown between two bikes in the same category. then again, my niece changes her mind more than socks.